Salt Lake City, UT Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Ultimate Brewery Tour
Salt Lake City, Utah, stands as a burgeoning hub in the American craft beer scene, reflecting a dedication to quality and creativity that resonates throughout its local breweries. Despite Utah's unique liquor laws, Salt Lake City has carved out a niche for itself, with a community of brewers and beer enthusiasts who are passionate about their local craft beer. This city offers an array of breweries that cater to a wide spectrum of palates, from classic ales and lagers to adventurous sours and IPAs.
The local craft beer culture in Salt Lake City is eclectic, inviting both residents and visitors to explore its offerings. Among the notable establishments, Grid City Beer Works prides itself on providing a selection of CO2, Nitro, and Cask beer options along with vegan food pairings, ensuring that all customers' tastes and dietary preferences are considered. Additionally, venues like Shades Brewing and Level Crossing Brewing Company have made a name for themselves with innovative beers that challenge industry trends and capture the essence of local flavors.
In navigating the craft beer landscape of Salt Lake City, the community aspect stands out, with breweries often doubling as social hotspots where people can gather, share experiences, and enjoy the high-quality beer crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Whether one is a seasoned aficionado or new to the world of craft beer, Salt Lake City's beer scene offers an impressive array of breweries that solidify the city's reputation as a must-visit destination for beer lovers.
History of Salt Lake City's Craft Beer Movement
Salt Lake City has a storied connection with beer, marked by a robust craft beer movement that has been brewing for decades. One pinnacle event heralded the local craft beer scene when the first microbrewery in Utah opened its doors in Park City in 1986.
In the heart of downtown Salt Lake City, Squatters opened as a brewpub in 1989. Its inception was during a period of significant urban redevelopment, symbolizing a resurgence of cultural and economic vitality. This pivotal opening marked an important step towards the flourishing of Salt Lake City's craft beer community.
Brewpubs and Craft Breweries in Salt Lake City:
Year Milestone
1986 First Utah microbrewery, Schirf's, opens in Park City
1989 Squatters brewpub inaugurates in downtown Salt Lake City
2010 Epic Brewing Company launches, expanding local craft options
2011 Legislative changes with Senate Bill 314 influence the beer market
Other key contributors in the area include Red Rock Brewing, Bohemian Brewery, Fisher Brewing, and Proper Brewing. Each has played an integral role in diversifying beer choices and establishing a vibrant community around craft beer.
Uinta Brewing Company has also become a nationally recognized name, ushering in a new era for Utah's beers on the national stage. By consistently pushing the boundaries, local brewers have solidified Salt Lake City not only as a haven for craft beer enthusiasts but also as a significant contributor to the national craft beer narrative.
The union of talented brewers and legislative changes has evolved the craft beer scene from modest beginnings into a dynamic and influential movement, making Salt Lake City an unexpected yet eminent craft beer hub in the United States.
Navigating the Local Craft Beer Scene
Salt Lake City's craft beer scene is as diverse as its mountainous backdrop, offering a rich array of styles and experiences for enthusiasts and newbies alike. From historic breweries that have stood the test of time to innovative establishments pushing the boundaries of brewing, the city’s beer landscape is brimming with unique flavors and community spirit.
Top Local Breweries
Salt Lake City teems with notable breweries; Proper Brewing Co and Fisher Brewing Company are community favorites for their diverse brews and vibrant atmospheres. Bohemian Brewery offers traditional German lagers, while Epic Brewing Company captivates palates with its high ABV and barrel-aged offerings. Templin Family Brewing impresses with its range of IPAs, and Roha Brewing Project is renowned for their crisp ales.
Beer Styles and Specialties
Local brews span a spectrum of styles: IPAs, from the juicy Hazy IPA to the bitter Hop Nosh IPA, and pale ales stand alongside robust lagers, complex saisons, and tangy Berliner Weisse. Breweries like Proper have gained attention for specialties including the Rye Cream Ale and Vienna Lager. Seasonal releases add to the variety, with options like kveik-fermented ales and München Helles.
Guided Brewery Tours and Experiences
Immerse yourself in the brewing process with the Brewery Tour Mobile Pass, offering curated tours and tastes across several locations. Many breweries feature a tasting room where visitors can try a range of beers. Beer tasting events are also frequently held, inviting enthusiasts to explore the nuances of different brews.
Events and Community Engagement
Salt Lake City breweries cultivate a community spirit with events that often include live music, craft breweries collaborations, and releases of seasonal beers. The city's craft beer community thrives on Instagram, showcasing local favorites and new brews. Foam enthusiasts often gather for brewery-organized events, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared passion.
Craft Beer and Food Pairing
Many Salt Lake City breweries offer an extensive food menu, pairing their beers with culinary delights. Patrons enjoy everything from wood-fired pizzas crafted by skilled chefs to vegan and gluten-free accommodations. The harmony between beer and food enhances the tasting experience, with some venues employing a resident chef to curate perfect matches.
Sustainability and Innovation in Brewing
Breweries in Salt Lake City aren't just about outstanding beer—they also emphasize environmental responsibility and innovation. From solar-powered operations to water conservation methods, these breweries blend creativity with sustainability. Techniques such as CO2 recapture and energy-efficient brewing methods are commonplace, showcasing the industry's commitment to the environment.
Local Favourites and Recommendations
Regular patrons often have their go-to breweries like Wasatch Brew Pub and Squatters Pub Brewing for their Ferda Double IPA or Red Rock Brewing Co. for its widely acclaimed ales. When it comes to beer, Salt Lake City's locals are a treasure trove of recommendations and insights into the best of the craft scene.
Seasonal and Limited Releases
Enthusiasm peaks with the arrival of seasonal and limited release offerings, such as the Kveik 1 Golden Sour Ale. These special brews often sell out quickly, as they capture unique flavors and brewing techniques that represent the imaginative spirit of Salt Lake City brewers.
Diverse Offerings Beyond Beer
While beer may be the star, let's not overlook the offerings of seltzers, non-alcoholic options, and brewery-made sodas. Craft breweries like Proper Brewing Co understand that diversity is key and cater to all customers, including those looking for alternatives to traditional beer.
Understanding Beer Brewing Process
In the world of Utah craft beer, knowing the nuances of brewing helps enthusiasts appreciate the complexity behind each pint. A brewer's choice of ingredients and techniques, understanding of beer terminology, and the utilization of brewing equipment and technology all shape the final taste and ABV (Alcohol By Volume) of the craft beer.
Ingredients and Techniques
The primary ingredients in beer brewing include water, malt, hops, and yeast. Brewers in Utah often incorporate unique local flavors or experiment with non-traditional ingredients to create distinct craft beers.
Water: The most abundant ingredient, which can influence the beer’s taste due to its mineral content.
Malt: Usually barley, malt is the source of the beer's sugars which are necessary for fermentation.
Hops: These flowers add bitterness to balance the sweetness of the malt and can impart aromatic and flavor characteristics.
Yeast: This microorganism is responsible for fermentation; different strains yield varied flavors and ABV levels.
Innovative techniques can include the use of Kveik yeast, known for its high-temperature fermentation, creating flavors that are fruit-forward and complex. Furthermore, some Utah brewers age their beer in casks or infuse them with CO2 or nitrogen to achieve different textures and tastes.
Craft Beer Terminology
Understanding the lingo can deepen appreciation for the craft. Here are some key terms a beer lover should know:
ABV (Alcohol By Volume): Indicates the percentage of alcohol in the beer.
Cask: A container for aging beer that can impart additional flavors.
CO2 (Carbon Dioxide): Gas used for carbonation, providing the beer with its fizz.
Kveik: A type of yeast from Norway, acclaimed for its high fermentation temperatures and the unique flavor profiles it produces.
Emphasizing these terms can help connoisseurs and novices alike navigate the eclectic Salt Lake City craft beer scene with greater understanding.
Brewing Equipment and Technology
The craft beer industry employs an array of modern equipment and technologies to ensure quality and consistency.
Fermentation Tanks: Where yeast converts sugars into alcohol and CO2.
Brite Tanks: Used for carbonating the beer before packaging.
Kegs and Casks: Containers for storing and serving beer; casks are often used for 'real ales'.
Temperature Control Systems: Critical for managing fermentation temperature, which can greatly affect the flavor and quality of the beer.
Advanced technology in equipment and automated systems allows brewers to monitor and adjust variables like temperature and CO2 levels, which is crucial for achieving the desired ABV and for adhering to the distinct brewing traditions of Utah's craft beer community.
Tips for Visiting Brew Pubs & Taprooms
When visiting Salt Lake City's brew pubs and taprooms, patrons can get the most out of their experience by understanding the local culture, respecting tasting etiquette, and navigating the diverse beer menus.
Exploring Downtown and Surrounding Areas
Seekers of craft beer should start their journey in downtown Salt Lake City, where many of the city's acclaimed brew pubs are concentrated. Exploring downtown provides a delightful variety of beer options, often within walking distance of each other. Visitors should also consider venturing into the surrounding areas for unique brewpub experiences—places like Grid City Beer Works enhance the adventure with a rooftop patio view.
Beer Tasting Etiquette
When sampling beers at a taproom, there are a few guidelines that will ensure a pleasant experience for all:
Ordering: Start with smaller pours such as 'flights' to sample multiple beers without overindulging.
Tasting: Sip the beer to appreciate the full range of flavors. Discussing the beer with the staff can further enhance one's understanding and enjoyment.
Navigating the Beer Menu
Diving into a beer menu can be daunting, but understanding a few key elements can help:
Styles: Beer comes primarily in two styles—Ales and Lagers. Each has subcategories that define their flavor profiles.
Pairing: Brew pubs often offer food menus crafted to complement their beer selections. Look for recommended pairings to elevate the tasting experience.
Visitors should note that besides the beer, many Salt Lake City brew pubs like Squatters Pub Brewery and Red Rock Brewery cater to diverse palates, often featuring vegan options and broad food menus.
Supporting Local Craft Beer Businesses
Supporting local businesses in Salt Lake City, especially craft breweries, is vital to the economic and cultural fabric of the community. Patrons enjoy a diverse range of unique, locally brewed craft beers, each with its own story and flavor profile.
Utah's craft beer scene has experienced significant growth, with Salt Lake City at the heart of this expansion. By choosing to support local brewers, beer enthusiasts are not only enjoying quality beverages but are also investing in the local economy and encouraging entrepreneurship.
Key Salt Lake City Breweries:
Proper Brewing Co: Known for a commitment to community and quality, offering a wide variety of brews.
Fisher Brewing Company: A historic brand revived to produce contemporary craft beers.
Bohemian Brewery: Stands out for its traditional Central European lagers, echoing Utah's brewing heritage.
Ways to Support:
Visiting Taprooms and Brewpubs: Experience beer at its freshest and engage directly with the brewing process.
Joining Brewery Tours: Gain insights into the intricate brewing methods and personal stories behind each establishment.
Participating in Beer Events and Tastings: Helps spread the word and taste the diversity available within Salt Lake City.
Purchasing Local Brews: Whether at a store or a restaurant, choosing local labels helps fuel the craft beer movement.
By supporting Salt Lake City's craft beer makers, consumers contribute to a thriving community where local businesses feel valued and growth is fostered. Enjoying craft beer in Salt Lake City is not just about taste—it's a gesture of support for a vibrant local industry.
The Future of Craft Beer in Salt Lake City
In Salt Lake City, the craft beer scene demonstrates a vibrant blend of tradition and innovation. Going forward, local ownership is expected to drive the growth of craft breweries, fostering a deeper sense of community and personal investment in the success of these establishments. Salt Lake Brewing Co., a pioneer in Utah’s craft beer scene, reflects this trend with its recent reacquisition of a downtown brewing facility—a clear indicator of the sector's momentum.
Craft breweries in Salt Lake City excel in offering a diverse range of brewing techniques and styles. From the classic CO2 offerings to the smooth textures of Nitro pours, and the traditional character of Cask beers, each brewery carves out a unique space in the market. Furthermore, creativity thrives in the inclusive environment of these breweries, which often feature options for various dietary preferences, including vegan.
Innovation remains a cornerstone of the local craft beer industry, with Epic Brewing Company upholding a reputation for boundary-pushing since its inception. The future of craft beer in Salt Lake City lies in these establishments' propensity for challenging the status quo and consistently delivering new experiences to consumers.
As Salt Lake City's craft beer community continues to evolve, it underscores a commitment to quality and diversity. The expectation is that breweries will maintain their forward-thinking approaches while honoring the traditions that have shaped Utah's beer culture. This balance of honoring the past and embracing the future positions Salt Lake City as a notable destination for craft beer enthusiasts.
Key Aspects of Salt Lake City's Craft Beer Future:
Continued local ownership of breweries
Emphasis on creative brewing methods and styles
Commitment to innovative practices and unique beer experiences
Increased variety of options, including diet-specific offerings
A dynamic balance between tradition and modernity in the craft beer culture
Resources and Tools for Craft Beer Enthusiasts
For aficionados of craft beer in Salt Lake City, a range of resources and tools can enhance the experience of exploring the local brewing scene. Maps, mobile apps, and informative books and guides are readily available, along with vibrant online communities that share a passion for the city's diverse craft beer offerings.
Map of Local Breweries
Salt Lake City's craft beer landscape is dotted with numerous breweries, each infusing the area with its own unique energy and character. A comprehensive map of local breweries can be a pivotal tool for enthusiasts looking to plan a self-guided tour or simply find a brewpub nearby. Interactive maps are available online and often feature detailed listings of breweries within the city, including prominent names such as Uinta Brewing or Grid City Beer Works.
Mobile Apps and Platforms
Craft beer enthusiasts can leverage various mobile apps and platforms to discover new breweries, keep track of their tasting notes, and even access a brewery tour mobile pass. Apps like Untappd allow users to rate and review beers, check in at local Salt Lake City breweries, and see what's popular in the community.
Books and Guides
Dedicated guidances, such as books and guides, are excellent companions for those keen to dive deeper into Utah's craft beer scene. These resources typically offer insights into the history, brewing techniques, and profiles of local breweries, helping readers to appreciate the subtleties of Salt Lake City's craft beer offerings.
Online Communities and Social Media
Online communities and social media platforms, including Instagram, have become central for sharing experiences and connecting with fellow craft beer lovers in Salt Lake City. Brewers and patrons alike post about the latest beer releases, events, and recommendations, fostering a community that supports and celebrates the vibrant local craft beer scene.
Accommodations and Transportation
Travelers who wish to explore Salt Lake City's craft beer scene will find an array of accommodations and transportation options that cater to their needs, all while ensuring a comfortable and accessible experience. Proximity to breweries, ease of movement, and organized tours all converge to elevate their stay and exploration in the city.
Hotels Near Breweries
Many hotels in downtown Salt Lake City are conveniently situated near local breweries, ensuring that guests are never too far from a unique craft beer experience. For the beer enthusiast, selecting a hotel adjacent to their preferred breweries can enhance their visit.
Hotel A: Steps away from Brewery X
Hotel B: A short walk to Brewery Y's rooftop patio
Hotel C: Near Brewery Z, offering the brewery tour mobile pass
Public Transit and Ride Sharing
Salt Lake City's public transit system includes buses and light rail services that cover downtown and its outskirts, which may be used to access various breweries. For added convenience, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available and offer a safe option for those planning to indulge in beer tastings.
UTA TRAX: Light rail connecting downtown to numerous neighborhoods
Bus Services: Routes encompassing key areas with breweries
Ride Sharing: Ubiquitous, offering ease of transportation post-tastings
Bike Rentals and Brewery Tours
For visitors seeking an active way to visit breweries, bike rentals are available. These can be a fun and eco-friendly way to navigate between beer tastings. Certain local companies also provide brewery tours with a brewery tour mobile pass, arranging visits to multiple breweries in one day without the worry of transportation.
Bike Rentals:
Available downtown
Include maps highlighting brewery locations
Organized Brewery Tours:
Offered with a mobile pass
Transport guests to several breweries while providing insights into the craft beer process
Each option enhances the experience of discovering Salt Lake City's craft beer community, providing both convenience and local charm.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
When exploring the craft beer scene in Salt Lake City, individuals must be mindful of the state's specific legal landscape. Utah enforces distinctive regulations that impact the production, distribution, and sale of alcoholic beverages, including craft beers.
Breweries in Utah need to adhere to alcohol content regulations dictated by the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Services (DABS). For instance, beer sold in grocery stores and on draft in bars can have an alcohol by volume (ABV) of up to 5%. Products exceeding this ABV must be purchased from state-controlled stores.
Licensing is also a pivotal aspect of Utah's craft beer operations. Breweries and establishments must obtain the appropriate licenses for brewing, distribution, and sales. Below are the key licenses related to craft beer:
Manufacturing license: For producing beer.
Beer wholesaling license: For distribution purposes.
Off-premise beer retailer: Allows the sale of beers for consumption off the premises.
On-premise beer retailer: Permits sales in bars, restaurants, and taverns for consumption on-site.
The DABS is responsible for issuing these licenses and ensuring compliance with state laws. Hours of operation for establishments selling craft beer are also regulated, with most state-owned liquor stores operating from Monday to Saturday and closing on Sunday.
Event organizers planning to sell craft beer must apply for a Single Event Permit, which involves a background check through the Utah Criminal Identification system.
It’s crucial for consumers and producers to keep abreast of the evolving regulations, as the Utah Legislature reviews and adjusts these policies periodically.
Appendix
Below is a supplementary list of notable craft breweries in Salt Lake City, along with their distinct offerings.
Grid City Beer Works
Offerings: CO2, Nitro, and Cask beer options
Special Features: Rooftop patio; vegan food options
The Bohemian
Location: 890 Fort Union Blvd
Highlights: Convenient location for après-ski beer
Uinta Brewing
Status: The largest among Salt Lake City breweries
Recommendation: Known for a diverse beer selection
Shades Brewing
Distinction: Recognized for unique beer choices such as innovative IPAs and sours
Level Crossing Brewing Company
Notable for: A variety of ales and beers that challenge industry trends
Epic Brewing Company
Mention: One of the popular breweries in Salt Lake City
Red Rock Brewing Company
Features: Established name in the local craft beer scene
Fisher Brewing Company
Recognition: Valued for both its historical roots and modern craft offerings
Kiitos Brewing
Known for: Environmentally conscious brewing practices
Proper Brewing Co.
Specialty: A wide array of beers catering to diverse palates
For a comprehensive experience, visitors are encouraged to visit each brewery's taproom or brewpub to directly sample the best selections and latest creations local brewers have to offer.
About the Author
The author of this guide is a recognized beer enthusiast and a seasoned writer with an extensive background in the craft beer industry. She brings her broad-ranging knowledge of brewing techniques and beer styles to the pages of this guide, providing readers with informed, reliable content on Salt Lake City's local craft beer scene.
Education & Experience:
With a degree in Food Science and a professional background that includes work with notable breweries, the author has a wellspring of expertise to draw upon. They have contributed to various food and drink publications and maintain an active role in the beer tasting community.
Local Insight:
A long-time resident of Salt Lake City, the author’s familiarity with the area's breweries is both personal and professional. They have fostered relationships with local brewers, offering them a unique, insider perspective on the nuances of the city’s craft beer community.
Skills Expertise
Beer Tasting Understanding of complex beer flavor profiles
Writing Ability to convey information clearly and concisely
Research Deep dives into brewing cultures and trends
The author's work reflects a commitment to providing clear, neutral, and confident guidance, making this guide an indispensable resource for both enthusiastic newcomers and discerning beer aficionados alike. Through their writing, the author seeks to illuminate the rich tapestry of Salt Lake City's breweries, contributing to readers’ appreciation and knowledge of the local craft beer landscape.
